Candlelight Vigil for Myanmar Cyclone Nargis Victims – May 17, 2008

Cyclone Nargis Relief Committee (Myanmar American)

Text of “Thank You” Speech by Dr. Christopher Lee

Good Evening Everyone:

To night we held Candlelight Vigil for the victims of Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar. We joined hands together

• prayed in memory of the people perished,
• prayed for the safety of many still missing, and
• prayed for divine blessing and sent metta to the suffering survivors

We did it in multiple languages and various religious customs. Not all people here tonight are from Myanmar, and the folks from Myanmar are of diverse origin, nationality or race. Thirty four different organizations, 16 religious organizations of diverse faiths and 18 non-religious professional, non-profit and social organizations are here. When natural disaster strikes, it dose not discriminate race or religion. For natural disaster, it is Human verses Mother Nature. Therefore this evening’s congregation and ceremony transcends all races and religions.

On behalf of Burmese American Science & Engineering Society, I like to express my sincere condolences to those who have lost their loved ones, relatives, and friends from the disaster. To the missing victims I prayed for God’s mercy. To the suffering survivors I pray for Godspeed help and recovery.

On behalf of the “Cyclone Nargis Relief Committee (Myanmar American)” I like to express my deep appreciations to all the Buddha Sayadaws, the Christian and Islamic Clergymen, our California Assembly Member Mike Eng, and especially you all for coming and participating. Moreover, all contribution to this immensely worthy humanitarian cause is greatly appreciated. The prayers chanted, the goodwill expressed, the metta sent, and your compassion and care exhibited for the victims will make a difference to their survival and lessen their sufferings. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. In closing, I like to say, “May God bless all”. Thank you very much.